Taking an EPA 608 practice test is highly advised for individuals looking to become certified under EPA section 608. Technicians who service, maintain, or dispose of any equipment where refrigerants could be released into the atmosphere are required to receive certification. This is known as a Section 608 Technician Certification.
There are actually four levels of these that we’ll discuss in detail later. All tests are administered only by EPA-certified testing organizations. With that said, these certification credentials do not expire so once you’ve taken the EPA 608 test, you won’t have to worry about it again unless the law changes.
Summary: Take a free EPA 608 practice test below.
It should be noted that core tests that are administered as “open book” are not eligible for Universal Certification. Only proctored exams count in this regard. Under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, anyone performing the following activities is required to have passed the EPA 608 test and attained their certification.
- Adding or removing refrigerant from appliances.
- Attaching hoses and gauges in order to measure the pressure within refrigeration appliances.
- Motor vehicle air conditioner repairs that risk integrity of the unit. For instance, this does not include exchanging one unit for another.
EPA 608 Practice Tests and Resources
| Resource | Notes | Provider |
| EPA 608 Practice Test (Core) | Review questions that will appear on the core portion of the EPA 608 exam. | Test-Guide |
| EPA 608 Practice Test (Type I) | Review questions that will appear on the type I portion of the EPA 608 exam. | Test-Guide |
| EPA 608 Practice Test (Type II) | Review questions that will appear on the type II portion of the EPA 608 exam. | Test-Guide |
| EPA 608 Practice Test (Type III) | Review questions that will appear on the type III portion of the EPA 608 exam. | Test-Guide |
EPA 608 Test Format
There are four sections in this test that comprise the four levels of certification so you’ll need to make sure your EPA 608 practice test covers all sections.
Most questions will be in relation to equipment, safety regulations, identification of refrigerants, and safe shipping practices. These types of questions appear in all sections.
(click on image to enlarge)
Core
This section of the test will cover general knowledge related to refrigerants and their regulation. Think of this as the foundation. Everything else on the test will be built on the same information as found in the core section. Students are required to pass the core section and one other before they are certified. So this section is required for all certifications but in itself is not a certification.
Type I
This section tests a student’s knowledge of small appliances that contain up to 5 pounds of refrigerant. This refrigerant must also be sealed at the factory. A few examples of appliances covered under Type I are window unit air conditioners and vending machines. In order to become a Type I technician, you must pass the Core and Type I sections of the exam.
Type II
Type II of this examination covers high-pressure refrigerants including systems used in residential central air conditioning units and large-scale commercial refrigeration units. In order for a person to become Type II certified, they must pass both the Core and Type II sections of the exam.
Type III
Now we come to the Type III section, which will cover information on low-pressure refrigerant equipment. The most common types of unit are chillers but a few more are scattered around. Following the same pattern as the previous sections, Type III certified individuals are required to pass both the Core and Type III sections of the exam.
Universal Certification
Individuals receiving a Universal Certification must pass all four sections of the EPA 608 Test. They are then certified to work on anything listed for Types I, II, and III. There isn’t a specific section for Universal Certification.
For more information about the EPA 608 test, check out this official resource from the Environmental Protection Agency.
EPA 608 Test Scoring and Requirements
Each section of the EPA 608 Test consists of 25 questions, each of which is multiple choice. These questions are developed by the Federal Government so there’s no way to know the exact nature of the questions at any given time. In most cases, an EPA 608 practice test will be based on common practices within each domain so it’s going to be close to the real thing.
In order to become certified in the eyes of the EPA, students must pass the Core section of the test, in addition to a certification type. A passing score is considered to be 70% when taking the exam in a proctored setting. However, it’s possible to take the Core and Type I sections in a non-proctored manner but the passing score in this case is 84%.
Each section of the test is scored differently and it’s not required to pass all sections unless your goal is to receive a Universal Certification. Test takers are allowed to select which sections they take.
Certifications received upon passing never expire, but it’s up to the individual to maintain a record of their scored sections. If they lose this, they could be forced to retake the test.
With that in mind, it’s up to certified technicians to stay up-to-date with laws and regulations after passing the test.
Section I of the EPA 608 exam can be taken online, which means that only Type I certifications can be received through an online test. The rest of the test must be taken in a location where progress can be monitored.
Taking the EPA 608 Exam
The first step is to find a testing location close to where you live. Browsing online or visiting your local HVAC store for information will help. Some locations will administer the test at the local HVAC. You can also try contacting a community college in your area.
EPA 608 exams differ on cost depending on the area but they are usually never over $200. Some areas will administer the test for as low as $50 though!
EPA 608 FAQS
What is the Best Method of Studying for the EPA 608 Exam?
The first tip is to take an EPA 608 practice test and try to score 100% on it. Take the same test several times until you get every question correct. Then move onto another test.In most cases, the test distributor will have a pool of nearly 400 questions that it uses to pull test questions from so you’ll want to prepare for the entire section.Next, understand that there are two companies that administer the EPA 608 exam – Esco and Mainstream Engineering. Call your testing center ahead of time and ask which company they are using. Each one has specific resources that you can study in preparation.Both companies administer the same basic tests and all questions are EPA approved, so there isn’t much variance.
Can the EPA 608 Exam be Retaken?
Technicians who take the EPA 608 exam are allowed to retake any sections that they failed while maintaining certifications for the sections they passed, unless they failed the Core section. Passing the Core section is required for all certifications.Naturally, the testing fee must be paid again before retesting.
Why Should I Use an EPA 608 Study Guide?
This is actually a common question. Many technicians wonder why a guide is necessary since there are so many manuals that describe regulations. The truth is that all of the information on the EPA 608 exam is scattered around and disjointed, so having it all in one convenient location will make it much easier on you.The EPA provides a list of topics so you can cross-check guides to make sure they are touching on the right areas.The study guide you use must cover all of the EPA’s recommendations. While a study guide will get you ready for the exam, it won’t cover every single refrigerant-related topic. Fortunately, every topic is not covered on the test.
Will I Have to Retake my Certification If Laws Change?
According to EPA's official website, no. However, it’s up to certified technicians to stay up-to-date with regulations. So I highly recommend that you read through a new study guide of some kind at least once a year to make sure you don’t accidently break any laws.Double check the EPA website for recent changes. Subscribe to their newsletter so you get these changes sent directly to your inbox.
Last Updated: 1/19/2022
FAQs
How many questions are on the EPA 608 test? ›
The Testing Format
The EPA 608 Type I exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions in total. Half of these questions are for the Core section of the exam, while the other 25 multiple choice questions are for the Type I portion of the exam.
- Use a Study Manual. ...
- Talk With an HVAC Professional. ...
- Make a Study Guide. ...
- Take a Practice Test. ...
- Watch Instructive Videos Online. ...
- Get Your Certification through Mainstream Engineering.
A passing score in a proctored setting is 70%. Core & Type I can be taken in a non-proctored setting, where the passing score is 84%.
How many times can you take the EPA 608 test? ›If you fail the exam, you can retest as often as necessary with no waiting period in between attempts. All the information needed to pass the exam is in Section 608 Type I open-book manual, so please refer to the manual often.
Is the EPA open book? ›EPA 609: How to Get 609 Certified
This is an open book exam with 25 questions. You must get at least 21 questions correct in order to pass. Once you register for the exam, you will have access to a downloadable study manual. It is recommended you use it for taking the exam, but study it beforehand.
If you pass all four tests you obtain a Universal Certification. If you fail any of the sections, you need only retake the test(s) that you failed. Currently, EPA 608 certification does not expire but who knows what the future holds.
Can I take the EPA 608 core test online? ›You can take the online EPA 608 test in English and Spanish through Trade Masters Online.
Does EPA 608 certification expire? ›Technicians are required to pass an EPA-approved test to earn Section 608 Technician Certification. The tests are specific to the type of equipment the technician seeks to work on. Tests must be administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization. Section 608 Technician Certification credentials do not expire.
How many questions is the EPA 608 Type 2? ›...
Information on High Pressure Practice Test 1.
| Trade Category: | HVACR |
|---|---|
| Test Category: | EPA 608 Certification |
| Test Subject: | Type II (High-Pressure / Very High-Pressure) |
| Test Number: | 1 of 4 |
| Questions on Test: | 25 |
- HVAC/R School Training. ...
- Hands-On Practice. ...
- HVAC Practice Exams. ...
- Review Notes, Homework and Relevant Exams During Training. ...
- Switch Between Topics of Study. ...
- Get Plenty of Sleep.
How much is the EPA 608 test? ›
$300 - This fee INCLUDES a recorded, recent, preparation webinar, study materials, & practice quizzes along with an online proctored final exam with unlimited attempts.
Can you buy refrigerant with Type 1 certification? ›If you get a 608 certification (Type I, Type II, Type II, or Universal), you can buy any refrigerant sold in an HVAC/R store in containers of 20 pounds or more.
Is EPA certification the same as HVAC certification? ›Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification is mandatory for all HVAC techs working with the refrigerants found in many types of HVAC/R units. Industry certifications like North American Technical Excellence (NATE) are often preferred by employers. What are these certifications?
What does a Section 608 certification allow a technician to do? ›Adding or removing refrigerant from a mini-split as part of installation, and/or connecting or disconnecting hoses or pre-charged lines requires a section 608 technician certification.
What is the difference between 608 and 609 certification? ›Section 608 technician certification is required to purchase ozone depleting or non-exempt substitute refrigerants, such as HFC refrigerants. Section 609 technician certification is required to purchase CFC-12 or EPA-approved substitutes for MVACs containing an ODS.
How do I get my EPA 608 online? ›- Download the free SkillCat App.
- Take online course or self proctored exam.
- Download your printable certificate.
You will need to retake the Section 608 certification test. Please go to the Section 608 Technician Certification programs page to find testing organizations which meet your needs.
What is Type 2 EPA certification? ›What is type 2 EPA certification? Type 2 EPA certification qualifies you to handle medium-pressure and high-pressure appliances, which are appliances that contain up to 200 pounds of refrigerant.
How long do EPA results take? ›Our independent end-point assessors carry out the EPA event(s) either face-to-face or remotely using GoToMeeting. Component level results will be available in EPA Pro within 8 working days.
How long does the EPA test take? ›EPA is required to process your application to be a lead-safe certified firm within 90 days of receipt. In most instances, properly-completed firm applications are processed in about one month.
How do I know if I passed my EPA 608 test? ›
In order to view your Certification History, please log in using the last name that is located on your refrigerant card plus either your Certification ID or your Social Security number.
Is SkillCat really free? ›It might be too good to believe, but all of the courses and the EPA certification are free. Yes, that's right, at SkillCat, we offer our courses and certifications free of charge.
How do I take the EPA test online? ›- Enroll in our course. Our course includes videos, text, and practice exams to help you prepare for the exam.
- Take your exam online. Join one of our weekly testing sessions with a proctor to take your exam online.
- Print your certification. You'll receive a printable certification card after passing your exam.
Yes! The Type I Certification is open book; you can study and take your test online. If the appliances you are working on exceed five pounds of refrigerant, the test needs to be Proctored. Click here to take the Online ProctorU Exam, which consists of Type I, II, III, and Universal.
What is the highest paying HVAC job? ›- Thermal Engineer. Salary range: $94,000-$130,500 per year. ...
- Hvac Project Manager. Salary range: $68,000-$100,000 per year. ...
- Cfd Engineer. Salary range: $80,000-$97,000 per year. ...
- Air Conditioning Engineer. ...
- HVAC Design Engineer. ...
- HVAC Engineer. ...
- Hvac Estimator. ...
- Hvac Sales Representative.
EPA Section 608 Certification
The good news is that Section 608 certification never expires. However, if you lose your certification card, you may have to retake the test depending on your situation.
Definition of Type 3 Appliances
EPA Type 3 covers low-pressure appliances. Technicians working on a Type 3 appliance must be certified as either a Type 3 or a Universal technician. Recall that the EPA Type 1 covers Small Appliances like small refrigerators and air conditioners.
Type III. These certifications are necessary for HVAC techs who work with low-pressure refrigerants, commonly found in chiller units. The Type III certification exam also asks for knowledge regarding: Leak detection.
Which type of refrigerant contains no chlorine? ›HFC = HydroFluoroCarbons
The hydrofluorocarbons are refrigerants that contain no chlorine and are not harmful to the ozone layer (ODP = 0, see section 5.3).
Low-pressure appliance means an appliance that uses a refrigerant with a liquid phase saturation pressure below 45 psia at 104 °F. Examples include but are not limited to appliances using R-11, R-123, R-113, and R-245fa.
What is sensible heat in HVAC? ›
Sensible heat refers to heat you can feel, or sense. This is any heat which can be measured on a thermometer, whether it's heat from the sun shining on a sunny day, or the flame from a candle. When an object is heated, the object's increase in temperature is sensible heat.
What is an ice exam? ›Industry Competency Exams (ICE) The Industry Competency Exams, formerly the ARI/GAMA Competency Exams, are administered by NATE. The exams measure industry-agreed standards of basic competency for entry-level (one year or less) technicians.
What are two locations where a cold air return should be installed? ›Terms in this set (26) Two locations where a cold air return should be installed: Open area of wall and low to the ground.
What does it mean to be EPA certified? ›What is an EPA certification? An EPA certification, or 608 certification, is official recognition by the EPA that a technician is knowledgeable about the laws and regulations surrounding the use and handling of ozone-depleting substances, or ODS, such as refrigerants.
On what does universal EPA certification allow a service technician to work? ›A universal certification demonstrates that the candidate has passed all three types of EPA 608 exams and has the skills needed to safely service and dispose of any kind of appliance with refrigerant.
Whats EPA stand for? ›The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for the protection of human health and the environment.
Can you buy 410A without license? ›Are you required to have a license or to be certified to handle and purchase R-410A? You are required to have an EPA Section 608 Type II or Universal certification license to handle R-410A, but no license is legally necessary for purchase.
Is venting refrigerant illegal? ›EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 82, Subpart F ) under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act prohibit individuals from intentionally venting ozone-depleting substances (ODS) or their substitutes while maintaining, servicing, repairing, or disposing of air-conditioning or refrigeration equipment.
Can I buy R22 freon without license? ›Many homeowners have been told that R22 is now illegal, and they have to change their HVAC not to be at odds with the law. That is false. R22 refrigerant is illegal to import and manufacturer in the U.S. But it's not illegal for anyone to buy R22 freon. And it's not illegal to sell it IF you have a license.
Can you take the EPA 608 type 2 test online? ›If the appliances you are working on exceed five pounds of refrigerant, the test needs to be Proctored. Click here to take the Online ProctorU Exam, which consists of Type I, II, III, and Universal. You can expect multiple-choice questions for each certification exam. This format includes four possible answers.
Can I take the EPA 608 core test online? ›
You can take the online EPA 608 test in English and Spanish through Trade Masters Online.
How long does it take to get EPA 608 results? ›As soon as the exam candidate has completed the closed-book, proctored exam, their test results will appear immediately. Upon passing the exam, the exam candidate can immediately print proof of certification, and the certification card is mailed the next business day. This is the same as in person online testing.
How long is the EPA 608 Certification good for? ›Tests must be administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization. Section 608 Technician Certification credentials do not expire.
Can you buy refrigerant with Type 1 certification? ›If you get a 608 certification (Type I, Type II, Type II, or Universal), you can buy any refrigerant sold in an HVAC/R store in containers of 20 pounds or more.
Is SkillCat really free? ›It might be too good to believe, but all of the courses and the EPA certification are free. Yes, that's right, at SkillCat, we offer our courses and certifications free of charge.
How do I take the EPA test online? ›- Enroll in our course. Our course includes videos, text, and practice exams to help you prepare for the exam.
- Take your exam online. Join one of our weekly testing sessions with a proctor to take your exam online.
- Print your certification. You'll receive a printable certification card after passing your exam.
$300 - This fee INCLUDES a recorded, recent, preparation webinar, study materials, & practice quizzes along with an online proctored final exam with unlimited attempts.
How long does it take to get EPA universal certification? ›How long will it take EPA to process my application to be a lead-safe certified firm? EPA is required to process your application to be a lead-safe certified firm within 90 days of receipt.
What is the difference between 608 and 609 certification? ›Section 608 technician certification is required to purchase ozone depleting or non-exempt substitute refrigerants, such as HFC refrigerants. Section 609 technician certification is required to purchase CFC-12 or EPA-approved substitutes for MVACs containing an ODS.
How many questions is the EPA exam? ›All EPA certifications will contain 25 questions from EPA Core, and 25 questions for each specific certification.
What does a Section 608 certification allow a technician to do? ›
Adding or removing refrigerant from a mini-split as part of installation, and/or connecting or disconnecting hoses or pre-charged lines requires a section 608 technician certification.
What is Type 2 EPA certification? ›What is type 2 EPA certification? Type 2 EPA certification qualifies you to handle medium-pressure and high-pressure appliances, which are appliances that contain up to 200 pounds of refrigerant.
What is the best HVAC certification? ›NATE certification is among the most common, but also the most notable, of the available HVAC technician certifications. NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence. It is a testing and certification organization specifically geared to the needs of HVAC technicians.
How many questions is the EPA 608 Type 2? ›...
Information on High Pressure Practice Test 1.
| Trade Category: | HVACR |
|---|---|
| Test Category: | EPA 608 Certification |
| Test Subject: | Type II (High-Pressure / Very High-Pressure) |
| Test Number: | 1 of 4 |
| Questions on Test: | 25 |
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification is mandatory for all HVAC techs working with the refrigerants found in many types of HVAC/R units. Industry certifications like North American Technical Excellence (NATE) are often preferred by employers. What are these certifications?